Program Description
Event Details
When Marian Sang is a picture book biography centered on the life of Marian Anderson, the groundbreaking contralto who became the first Black opera singer to perform a principal role at the Metropolitan Opera in 1955. Written by Newbery Honoree Pam Muñoz Ryan and illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Brian Selznick, the book traces Marian’s journey from her childhood in Philadelphia to her rise as one of the most important classical singers of the twentieth century.
The story highlights both Marian’s extraordinary musical talent and the racism and segregation that shaped her life and career. The book incorporates spirituals and the patriotic song “My Country ’Tis of Thee,” which Marian famously sang at her 1939 performance on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. The book makes clear that this defining event is only part of her larger story—one marked by perseverance, artistic excellence, and grace.
In the Opera Memphis program “When Marian Sang,” the picture book is read by Shirley Hill, and various spirituals and songs are sung by soprano and former Handorf Company Artist Marquita Richardson.
This program is made possible by a grant from FedEx.